Workers’ pay has been declining in value relative to the cost of everyday purchases since 2010, which is the longest period of decline in 50 years, according to government data.

Figures from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) revealed wages falling 2.2 per cent every years since the first part of 2010.

It pointed to reduced productivity and fewer hours worked as part of the problem.

"Over the last four years British workers have suffered an unprecedented real wage squeeze,” said Trades Union Congress chief Frances O’Grady.

"Even more worryingly, average pay rises have got weaker in every decade since the 1980s, despite increases in productivity, growth and profits. Unless things change, the 2010s could be the first ever decade of falling wages.